Capt Amarinder, Badal have much in common
Mansions, horses galore for both political families
Their animosity notwithstanding, Punjab’s top two political families, the first family of the ruling Badals and their bęte noire family of Capt Amarinder Singh, present one thing in common, beyond the profession of politics they share. 
Both reside in mansions that are only dreams for a majority of people in the country. Both are fond of horses. Their palatial houses span across several acres with massive lawns, swimming pools, exotic interiors, antiques, fountains and huge backyards where thoroughbred horses ramble. Both Badals and Capt Amarinder pursue their hobby of keeping horses.
The new Moti Bagh Palace in Patiala houses the erstwhile royal scion of Patiala, Capt Amarinder Singh. A long circular driveway skirting around massive well-mowed central lawns heads straight in front of a huge porch.
Exotic paintings and portraits of kings of the erstwhile empire look down on you as you enter the high-roofed lobby of the palace. Antiques in plenty and impeccable woodwork and several rooms in luxury setting provide a glimpse into the lifestyle of the royal family.
“No photographs inside this area please,” Preneet Kaur, the Union minister of state for external affairs and wife of Capt Amarinder, is quick to tell photojournalists.
The minister is fondly called the Maharani here. The peek-a-boo “tour” in Patiala is cut short. Over a dozen high quality horses in the massive backyards of the palace add to the aristocratic setting of the palace.
Faraway in village Lambi is a no-less impressive premises of the Badals spread in several acres, just that the access is highly restricted.
A gigantic wooden gate, a replica of ancient palace doors, greets you in first place. There’s another similar gate inside just before the private corridors of the family. Sharpshooters guard the 15-foot walled fortress-like premises.
Just opposite the Badals’ house is another high-walled red-bricked building where rare breeds of horses are kept. But between the two arch rival families, the Captain arguably scores when it comes to high-end living and lifestyle, and off course even in the cost of the mansion.
